Last Updated on 6 October 2025 IST | Indian Air Force Day 2025: Indian Air Force Day 2025: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will mark its 93rd Air Force Day on 8th October 2025 at the Hindon Air Force Station, showcasing the strength, precision, and unwavering spirit of the nation’s air warriors. This year’s celebration holds extraordinary significance, as it follows the IAF’s important role in Operation Sindoor, where it strategically struck Pakistani assets in a decisive response to the Pahalgam terror attacks. Since its establishment in 1932, the IAF has evolved into a powerful entity that embodies the values of commitment, courage and advanced technology. Read the full story to know about it in complete detail.
93rd Air Force Day 2025 Highlights
- Every year Air Force Day is celebrated to honour the contributions of the Indian Air force as a part of the Indian armed forces.
- This year, the 93rd Air Force Day will return to the Hindon Air Force Station, Uttar Pradesh, after a gap of three years.
- The dress rehearsal for the air show is scheduled to take place on 6th October 2025 at the Hindon Air Force Station.
- The Indian Air Force briefed the media on 3rd October 2025, revealing their program for the 93rd Air Force Day celebrations and their impressive line-up of static display, among other details.
- The famous aircraft Rafael will also be showcased in the air show.
- While the exact number of aircraft participating in the 93rd Air Force Day celebrations remains undisclosed, one of the most anticipated moments will be the symbolic farewell of the legendary MiG-21. The Tejas, manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India, will also take part in the air force airshow.
- Along with the security of the nation via air, the selfless working of the Indian Air Force at the time of natural calamities are the acts to be appreciated on this day.
- The adoption of True Spiritual Knowledge given by Supreme God Kabir is the conclusive and peaceful solution to end all disputes and misery in this world.
About Indian Air Force (IAF)
One of the most critical and important parts of the Indian Armed forces is the Indian Air Force whose primary motive is to secure the nation’s airspace and conduct aerial activities during wars and conflicts. Also known as Bharatiya Vayu Sena. According to ‘War Power India’, the Indian Air Force (IAF) comprises approximately 3,10,975 air force personnel. In June 2019, the IAF reported having roughly 12,142 commissioned officers, while the authorised strength was set at 12,625. This resulted in a shortfall of approximately 483 officers for that year.
Global Air Powers Ranking 2025 has been released by The World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA). The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been ranked sixth on this index with a TVR score of 69.4 in terms of the total fighting strength of various air services of different countries of the world.
What is Indian Air Force Day?
Every nation celebrates its own Air Force Day. India observes its Air Force Day on 8th October every year. The establishment of this day came under British rule in 1932 as an auxiliary air force of the British Empire which was also used in World War II with the prefix of ‘royal’ to its name. However, after gaining independence and transition to republic in the year 1950, the term Royal was removed from the title of Indian Air Force.
Since 1950 Indian Air Force has been engaged in many wars including four wars with Pakistan and one war with China. Along with this the force has conducted various other operations namely Operation Vijay, Operation Meghdoot, Operation Cactus, Operation Poomalai and the recent Operation Sindoor. Along with these operations, the IAF has also been engaged with the United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Key Moments for the Indian Air Force
Among the many achievements and contributions of the Indian Air Force, here are a few important ones:
- It played an essential role during World War II, especially in the Burma Campaign.
- Following India’s independence in 1947, the IAF experienced significant growth and modernisation, marked by the introduction of jet aircraft such as the Vampire and Canberra.
- The IAF has been instrumental in various military engagements, including the Indo-Pakistani wars and the Kargil War, demonstrating the valour and expertise of its personnel.
- Over time, it has embraced cutting-edge technology, integrating aircraft like the Mirage 2000, Sukhoi Su-30MKI and HAL Tejas. The acquisition of Rafale jets further bolstered its operational capabilities.
- In 2025, the Indian Air Force once again demonstrated bravery, skill and dedication in Operation Sindoor as they precision targeted Pakistani assets to render justice to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.
93rd Air Force Day Celebrations
This year’s celebrations are set to be more spectacular than ever before. There is an impressive lineup of events planned by the Indian Air Force on 8th Oct 2025. This impressive display will showcase multiple aircrafts including advanced fighter jets such as the Rafale, SU-30, MIGs, Jaguar and Tejas, as well as an aerial display by the Heritage Flight.
Briefing the media on 3rd October 2025 about upcoming the 93rd Air Force Day celebrations, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh remarked, ‘This day is an opportunity for us to think about what has been done in the last year and also celebrate from where we have started to which place we have reached; and also it is a time for us to pay our respect and be thankful to our predecessors, our veterans who have guided us for all these years and brought us up to where we have landed up today.’
Planned Events on the 93rd Air Force Day
During the official press briefing on 3rd October 2025, the Indian Air Force shared a list of events planned on 8th October 2025:
- The event will begin with the Air Force Day Parade
- A static display of select aircrafts will be put up.
- Performance delivered by Air Warrior Drill Teams.
- The hallmark aerial display by the Heritage Flight.
- The Innovation Cell will share all the innovations and findings done in the past one year.
- A walk-through of the year gone by.
Air Force Day Parade Highlights
An important part of Air Force Day is the parade. Some notable points about this parade were shared during the press briefing:
- The Air Force Day Parade returns to the Hindon Air Base after three years.
- A complete dress rehearsal will be held on 6th October 2025.
- The parade will be reviewed by Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh.
- The Chief of Defence, the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Naval Staff will also attend the Air Force Day parade.
- The Dhwaj Flypast will be carried by MI 17 1 (V), out of which three MI 17 will carry the National flag, the Indian Air Force flag and Operation Sindoor flag.
- The parade composition includes four Squadrons with two flights in each.
- The Indian Air Force has arranged for about 3000 people to be seated to watch the parade, along with facilities for drinking water and any medical emergencies.
- An investiture ceremony will take place after the parade to award the Presidential Awards to Indian Air Force personnel.
Static Display on the 93rd Air Force Day Celebrations
The static display line-up includes India’s impressive fleet, such as:
- Rafale: This French-manufactured fighter jet has significantly enhanced the IAF’s offensive capabilities.
- Su-30MKI: Recognised as the cornerstone of the IAF’s combat fleet, it is celebrated for its adaptability and firepower.
- Tejas: India’s homegrown Light Combat Aircraft, representing a commitment to self-sufficiency and technological advancement.
- Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH): An indigenously developed multi-role helicopter, the ALH serves in transport, rescue and combat missions. The focus of the Indian defence forces remains ‘Atmanirbharta’, showcasing India’s growing aerospace self-reliance.
- Apache Combat Helicopter: Equipped with advanced sensors and precision weaponry, the AH-64E Apache is a lethal strike platform designed for all-weather attack operations.
- C-130J Super Hercules Transport Aircraft: A versatile tactical airlifter, the C-130J is used for troop deployment, cargo transport and humanitarian relief missions, even on short or unprepared runways.
- C-17 Globemaster III Transport Aircraft: The C-17 is a heavy-lift aircraft capable of carrying massive payloads across continents, symbolising the IAF’s strategic global reach.
- MiG-29 Fighter: Renowned for its speed and agility, the MiG-29 is a twin-engine air-superiority fighter that ensures India’s dominance in aerial combat.
- MiG-21 Fighter: A legendary supersonic jet, the MiG-21 has served as the backbone of the IAF for decades. Despite being decommissioned in September 2025, the MiG-21 will take centrestage for a one last time, marking this as its symbolic farewell.
- Akash Missile System: An indigenously developed surface-to-air missile system, Akash provides robust defence against enemy aircraft and drones at medium range.
- Airborne Early Warning and Control System (Netra): Mounted on an Embraer jet, Netra enhances airspace surveillance and command capabilities. It enables real-time battlefield awareness.
- Rohini Radar: A state-of-the-art 3D radar developed in India, Rohini provides accurate detection and tracking of multiple aerial targets simultaneously.
Air Warrior Drill Team
The Air Warrior Drill Teams of the Indian Airforce will perform a coordinated rifle drill for the audience. An Air Force spokesperson shared that 18 Air Warriors of the Subroto team will perform the meticulous drill.
Aerial Display by the Heritage Flight
Apart from the events listed above, a striking aerial display will also be performed by the Heritage Flight of the Indian Air Force. The aircrafts to be used for this display are the vintage Harvard aircraft, Tiger Moth and Hindustan Trainer II aircraft.
Display by the Innovation Cell of the Indian Air Force
India has strived hard to create indigenous defence weapons and machines in the last many years. The Indian Air Force’s innovation team will showcase 18 innovations for the public to understand the ‘spirit of self-reliance, problem solving and futuristic thinking of the Indian Air Force’.
This showcase includes innovative ideas and solutions developed by air warriors from various units of the Indian Air Force. Once again the key underlying stress point of the entire Air Force Day celebrations is India’s ‘Atmanirbharta’.
Additionally, it will also feature a walk-through of the timeline of events and proceedings of the year gone by.
■ Read in Hindi: Indian Air Force Day: इंडियन एयरफोर्स डे पर जानिए कौन है सृष्टि की सबसे बड़ी ताकत?
Some Facts About Indian Air Force (IAF) on Indian Air Force Day 2025
- The Indian Air Force (IAF) is ranked fourth largest operational air force globally after America, Russia and China.
- According to ‘War Power India’, the Indian Air Force has 3,10,575 personnel. It also possesses more than 1700 aircrafts.
- IAF has always been more active than any other force in relief operations. It played its role in the Gujarat cyclone (1998), Tsunami (2004) and floods in Northern India. However, there is a record named after the IAF on rescuing approximately 20,000 in operation ‘Raahat’ during Uttarakhand Floods.
- The centre for celebration of Air Force Day, Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh is the largest airbase in entire Asia. It is also the 8th largest globally.
- IAF has also been part of major operations mentioned above and engaged with the United Nations in peacekeeping operations.
- The role of IAF in Operation Sindoor has been paramount with its precision strikes of Pakistani assets.
- IAF also includes women personnel in their squad which in turn promotes gender equality in the field of Air force as well. Even the Rafale team of the IAF has a woman pilot.
- The Indian Air Force has its motto as ‘Nabham Sparsham Deeptham’ which means ‘Touch the sky with glory‘ which has been taken from the eleventh chapter of Holy Bhagavad Gita. Coincidentally, the revelation about the actual narrator of Holy Geeta ji has also been made in verse 32 of the eleventh chapter as Satan (Kaal Brahm) and not Shri Krishna.
Theme for the 93rd Air Force Day Celebrations
No official announcement or declaration has been made by the Indian Air Force about the theme of the 93rd Air Force Day as yet. Neither has the Ministry of Defence made any official communication in this regard.
However, last year’s Indian Air Force Day theme was believed to be ‘Bhartiya Vayu Sena – Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar’ which translates to ‘Indian Air Force – Potent, Powerful, Self-Reliant’ which underscores IAF’s dedication to preserving its superiority through strength, capability and self-sufficiency. The emphasis on ‘AtamNirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) is clearly reflected in the growing dependence on homegrown technology and equipment.
- Indigenous Projects: The HAL Tejas, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) exemplify India’s advancing defense manufacturing prowess.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with international defense manufacturers and continuous enhancements to existing platforms ensure that the IAF remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
- Human Resource Excellence: The true strength of the IAF is not solely in its machinery but also in the expertise, commitment, and valour of its personnel. Comprehensive training programs and an emphasis on both mental and physical fitness guarantee that IAF members are perpetually prepared for missions.
IAF Rank Structure and Aircraft Inventory
Marshal of The Indian Air Force is the highest rank in IAF which is being granted by the President of India after exceptional service during wars. The only person to achieve this rank is MIAF Arjan Singh, DFC.
The Air force rankings are divided into officer ranks also known as commissioned officers and personnel below officer ranks.
Officer’s Ranks
Chief of the Air Force is the head of the Indian Air Force holding the rank of Air Chief Marshal. Current chief of the Indian Air Force is Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, PVSM, AVSM. Further it is followed by Air Marshal, Air Vice Marshal, Air Commodore, Group Captain, Wing Commander, Squadron Leader, Flight Lieutenant and Flying Officer.
- Air Chief Marshal
- Air Marshal
- Air Vice Marshal
- Air Commodore
- Group Captain
- Wing Commander
- Squadron Leader
- Flight Lieutenant
- Flying Officer
Personnel Below Officer Rankings
In the Indian Air Force, personnel below officer rank (PBOR) include Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs). The ranks within these groups are as follows:
Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs):
– Master Warrant Officer
– Warrant Officer
– Junior Warrant Officer
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs):
– Sergeant
– Corporal
– Leading Aircraftman
– Aircraftman
These ranks form the fundamental structure of the IAF, playing crucial roles in both operational readiness and daily functions. Each rank has distinct responsibilities and duties that contribute to the smooth and effective operation of the force.
■ Also Read: Indian Navy Is The World’s 7th Largest Navy: Know All About Indian Navy Day
The aircraft inventory of India includes aircraft from Russia, Britain, France, Israel, America and India origin with Russia being the major of them in number. However the exact number of aircrafts and equipment with IAF cannot be determined with available open sources.
But there are estimates taken out internationally which reveals its counting to be over 1700 with over 700 combat capable aircrafts available. Some of the major names from the inventory are Dassault Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Mikoyan MiG-29, Dassault Mirage 2000, HAL Tejas, SEPECAT Jaguar, Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21. It also includes the recent addition of LCA Mark 1A Tejas fighter jets.
Recruitment Avenues for Officers and Personnel Below Officer Rank in the Indian Air Force
Officers Entry
National Defence Academy (NDA):
Eligibility: Candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics and must be unmarried males.
Selection Process: Candidates are required to pass the NDA examination, followed by an SSB (Services Selection Board) interview.
Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE):
Eligibility: Candidates must hold a graduate degree in any discipline, with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or possess a Bachelor of Engineering degree.
Selection Process: Candidates must successfully complete the CDSE examination, followed by an SSB interview.
Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT):
Eligibility: Candidates must have a graduate degree in any discipline, with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or possess a Bachelor of Engineering degree.
Selection Process: Candidates are required to pass the AFCAT examination, followed by an SSB interview.
NCC Special Entry:
Eligibility: Graduates must have achieved a minimum of ‘B’ Grade in the ‘C’ Certificate examination of the NCC Air Wing Senior Division.
Selection Process: Candidates will undergo a direct SSB interview.
Personnel below officer ranking
Agniveer Vayu (Technical):
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have completed 10+2 with a focus on Mathematics, Physics, and English, achieving a minimum of 50% marks, or possess a three-year Diploma in Engineering.
Selection Process: The selection will involve a written examination, an Adaptability Test, a Physical Fitness Test and a Medical Examination.
Agniveer vayu (Non-Technical):
Eligibility Criteria: Completion of 10+2 in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks.
Selection Process: Candidates will undergo a written examination, an adaptability assessment, a physical fitness evaluation and a medical examination.
Agniveer vayu (Sports)
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is seeking applications from unmarried male candidates of Indian nationality for this program, which offers a chance to engage in a military lifestyle for a duration of four years.
True Spiritual Knowledge Is the Only Way Out to Any Dispute
We have witnessed the rapid development of technology in front of our eyes in the past 60-70 years. Technology is considered as one of our greatest achievements today. But, instead of using it for the betterment of society, we have misused this gift of technology given by Supreme God Kabir for our destruction by making explosives and war material with the name of protection. The need of the hour is to understand that war cannot give us anything. Indulging ourselves in wars is an act of Satan (Kaal Brahm) performed through us for destruction. And, without the awareness of True Spiritual Knowledge one cannot understand this.
Currently on the entire globe only Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj is the Complete Saint Who is giving everyone with the conclusive True Spiritual Knowledge as given by Supreme God Kabir 600 years ago that contains the gist of all Holy Scriptures and the Way of Living to be adopted for the rest of life. For more knowledge on this do watch Spiritual Sermons of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj on His youtube channel Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj or you can read His book Gyan Ganga- The River of Knowledge.
FAQ About Indian Air Force Day 2025
Answer: 8 October 1932.
Answer: Sir Thomas Walker Elmhirst
Answer: Air Marshal Subroto Mukerjee.
Answer: Padmavati Bandopadhayay
Answer: A total of 60 Air bases ( Air Stations) are present with the air force.
Answer: नभ:स्पृशं दीप्तम or Touch the sky with glory.
Answer: Royal Indian Air Force was the name of the air force. However the word royal was removed in 1950 when India became a republic.
Answer: Hindon Air Force Station, Uttar Pradesh.
Answer: Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh are notable individuals.
